The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is concerned by figures released today revealing a surprising number of Australians minimise and trivialise rape, and urges victims of sexual violence to seek help from their GP.
Findings from the 2013 National Community Attitudes towards Violence Against Women Survey (NCAS) announced by VicHealth today reveal a significant proportion of the community blame rape victims and excuse the actions of perpetrators.
Australian GPs are in a unique position to help curb violence against women through prevention, identification and response. The RACGP has developed the Abuse and violence: working with our patients in general practice (4th edition) guidelines (the White book) to support GPs in their efforts to deal with abuse and violence.
RACGP President, Dr Liz Marles said the survey findings are reflective of the disturbing growth of ‘rape culture’ in Australia that normalises sexual violence against women.
“Sexual abuse and violence is more prevalent in society than most people are aware or would like to acknowledge,” said Dr Marles.
“Support for victims is readily available in general practice and GPs are perfectly placed to counsel patients and coordinate person-centered specialist care where necessary.
“GPs are encouraged to enquire about their patients’ circumstances if they show clinical indicators of abuse or violence, as understanding and naming the abuse is the first step towards breaking the silence.
“The White book employs a broad definition of abuse including abuse of a physical, sexual, emotional or financial nature and can help GPs identify signs of abuse that may not be immediately apparent.
“It offers GPs accessible, evidence-based guidance to identify and respond to patients presenting with signs of sexual and other forms of abuse.”
The guide focuses predominantly on intimate partner and sexual violence and children experiencing abuse.
Whilst the RACGP acknowledges that not all survivors of abuse are women and not all perpetrators are men, research indicates that men are the perpetrators in the majority of cases for child abuse, sexual assault and intimate partner abuse.
The RACGP will continue to work with other agencies and those in the community committed to reducing sexual abuse and violence against women.